Cooking for a large family can often result in a bounty of leftovers. Instead of letting them go to waste, why not turn them into something new and exciting? Here are three diverse examples of creative leftovers ideas that can help you save time and money while keeping everyone at the table happy.
This is a fantastic way to utilize leftover roasted vegetables and meats from dinner. Imagine you had a big family gathering the night before, and you have extra roasted potatoes, carrots, and some grilled chicken or steak. You can transform these into a delicious breakfast hash that will fuel your family for the day ahead.
Simply chop the leftover veggies and meat into bite-sized pieces. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil or butter. Once hot, toss in the chopped leftovers and sauté until they are warmed through and slightly crispy. You can even crack a few eggs on top and cover the skillet until the eggs are cooked to your liking. Serve with toast or tortillas for a hearty breakfast. Kids love it, and it’s a great way to start the day.
Notes: Feel free to customize this hash with whatever veggies you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even leftover greens work great!
Who doesn’t love taco night? If you have leftover taco fixings from your last fiesta—like seasoned ground beef, chicken, or even just the toppings—you can easily reinvent them into a Taco Salad for dinner the next day. This is a great way to use up those ingredients while providing a fun and interactive meal.
Start by laying a base of lettuce or spinach in a large bowl. Then, layer your leftover meat, beans, corn, and any other toppings you have—like diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and avocado. Drizzle your favorite dressing or salsa over the top. For extra crunch, add some tortilla chips or strips. Let everyone dig in and customize their own salad; it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Variations: You can also use the leftovers in a burrito or quesadilla, just wrap them up and grill until crispy!
If you find yourself with an abundance of leftover veggies from the week, this pasta bake is a perfect solution. It’s comforting, filling, and a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition for your family.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook a pot of pasta according to package instructions. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with your leftover veggies, a jar of marinara sauce, and some shredded cheese. Stir until everything is well coated. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle additional cheese on top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. The result? A delicious, cheesy pasta bake that your family will love!
Notes: You can easily switch up the sauce or cheese based on what you have on hand. This dish is also a great way to use up leftover meats or sauces from previous meals.